Water activities, such as surfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding, are a great way to stay active and have fun all year round.
However, it’s important to make sure you have the right clothing and gear to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
The right outdoor clothing can help protect you from the sun, keep you warm in cold water, and prevent chafing and discomfort while participating in water sports.
Factors to consider when choosing outdoor clothing for water activities
When selecting clothing for water activities, there are a few key factors to consider:
Water temperature: If you are participating in water activities in cold water, you’ll need clothing that will keep you warm and help prevent hypothermia.
This might include a wetsuit, a drysuit, or a combination of thermal and windproof outer layers.
If you’re in warm water, you’ll want lightweight, breathable clothing that will help keep you cool and protect your skin from the sun.
Sun protection: Whether in cold or warm water, it’s important to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Look for clothing with built-in UV protection, or wear a rash guard or swim shirt over your swimsuit to add an extra layer of protection.
Fit and comfort: Proper fit and comfort are crucial for outdoor water clothing.
Look for stretchy and flexible clothing, as this will allow for a full range of motion and reduce the risk of chafing or irritation.
Types of outdoor clothing suitable for water activities
There are a few different types of outdoor clothing that are suitable for water activities:
Wetsuits: A wetsuit is a tight-fitting suit made of neoprene or other synthetic materials that are designed to keep you warm in cold water. Wetsuits come in a range of thicknesses, so you can choose the one that is best suited to the water temperature.
Drysuits: A dry suit is a waterproof suit designed to keep you completely dry in the water. Drysuits are typically made of waterproof and breathable materials, and they have seals around the wrists, ankles, and neck to prevent water from entering the suit.
Rash guards and swim shirts: Rash guards and swim shirts are lightweight, stretchy tops that are worn over a swimsuit or wetsuit. They provide sun protection and can also help reduce chafing and irritation.
Swimsuits: Swimsuits come in a range of styles and materials, from traditional one-piece suits to modern tankinis and bikinis. When choosing a swimsuit for water activities, look for a comfortable style that provides good coverage.
6 Things to look for when shopping for outdoor clothing for water activities
1. Construction
Technical clothing should be constructed with durability and performance in mind.
Look for clothing with reinforced areas, such as the knees and elbows, and choose clothing with a good fit that won’t restrict your movement.
2. Activity-based products
Choose clothing that is specifically designed for the water activity you’ll be participating in. For example, a wetsuit or drysuit is essential for scuba diving, while a swimsuit or rash guard is more suitable for swimming or surfing.
3. Insulation material
The type of insulation material used in your clothing can make a big difference in how warm or cool you stay. Synthetic fabrics such as fleece and polyester are popular choices for insulation, as they are lightweight and quick-drying. Down and other natural materials are also good options, although they may take longer to dry.
4. Fabric types
Different types of fabrics can offer different levels of protection and performance. Waterproof fabrics, such as Gore-Tex, are great for keeping you dry in wet conditions. Breathable fabrics, such as mesh or perforated materials, are good for ventilation and can help keep you cool.
5. Thermoregulation
Choosing the right clothing for thermoregulation is important in keeping you comfortable while participating in water activities. Layering your clothing can help you regulate your body temperature and stay comfortable in a range of weather conditions.
6. Wind & waterproofing
In wet conditions, it’s important to wear clothing that is both windproof and waterproof to keep you dry and protected from the elements. Look for clothing with a high waterproof rating, and be sure to check the seams and zippers to ensure that they are properly sealed.
Tips for choosing the right fit and sizing for outdoor water clothing
When selecting outdoor clothes for water activities, choosing the right fit and sizing is important to ensure comfort and performance.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind.
- Follow the size chart: Most outdoor clothing brands have size charts that can help you find the right fit. Be sure to measure yourself and compare your measurements to the size chart to ensure the best fit.
- Consider the stretch factor: Many outdoor water clothing items are made with stretchy materials, so they may fit differently than traditional clothing. Be sure to take the stretch factor into account when selecting your size.
- Try on before you buy: If possible, try on the clothing before you buy it to make sure it fits properly and is comfortable.
Care and maintenance of outdoor water clothing
Proper care and maintenance of your outdoor water clothing is important to ensure that it lasts and performs well.
Here are a few tips to follow.
- Rinse your clothing after use: Rinsing your outdoor water clothing with fresh water after use can help remove salt, chlorine, and other contaminants that can cause damage over time.
- Dry your clothing properly: Be sure to dry your outdoor water clothing completely before storing it. This will help prevent mold and mildew from forming. If your clothing is wet when you’re ready to pack it away, hang it up to dry or place it in a dry, well-ventilated area.
- Store your clothing properly: When not in use, store your outdoor water clothing in a dry, cool place. Avoid folding or stacking your clothing, as this can cause creases and wrinkles that are difficult to remove. Instead, hang your clothing up or roll it up and store it in a drawer.
Recommended brands and products for outdoor water clothing
Many brands and products are available for outdoor water clothing; the right one for you will depend on your needs and preferences. Here are a few popular brands to consider.
- Patagonia: Patagonia is a well-known outdoor brand that offers a range of wetsuits, dry suits, and swimsuits for water activities.
- O’Neill: O’Neill is another popular brand for outdoor water clothing, with a variety of wetsuits, dry suits, and swimsuits to choose from.
- Billabong: Billabong is a surf-inspired brand that offers a range of swimsuits, rash guards, and other outdoor water clothing.
Other considerations
Consider the body’s ability to lose heat
When choosing clothes for outdoor activities, it’s important to consider how easily the body can lose heat.
Factors such as wind and water temperature can affect the body’s ability to stay warm, so it’s important to choose clothing that can help to protect against these elements.
For example, a waterproof and windproof jacket can help to keep the body dry and warm in wet and windy conditions.
Think about the weather
The weather can also play a role in choosing the right outdoor clothes for water activities. In warm weather, lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing can help to keep the body cool and comfortable.
In cooler weather, heavier, insulating materials may be needed to help trap heat close to the body and prevent the body from cooling too rapidly.
Consider the air temperature
The air temperature can also impact how much clothing is needed for water activities. In general, it’s a good idea to dress in layers so that clothing can be added or removed as needed to regulate body temperature.
For example, a lightweight base layer, a mid-layer for insulation, and an outer layer to protect against the elements can be a good combination in cool or variable weather.
Choose insulating materials
To help keep the body warm during water activities, it’s important to choose insulating materials that can trap heat close to the body.
Synthetic materials such as fleece and thermal insulation are good options for mid-layers, as they can help to retain body heat and keep the body warm in cold conditions.
Pay attention to water temperatures
The temperature of the water can also impact what type of clothing is needed for water activities.
In colder water, it’s important to choose thicker, insulating materials to help keep the body warm. In warmer water, lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing may be more appropriate.
Look for ways to save money
When choosing clothes for water activities, it’s also important to consider the cost.
Look for ways to save money, such as by choosing multi-purpose clothing that can be used for various activities or by purchasing clothing during sales or clearance events.
Don’t be afraid to wear more layers
In colder conditions, wearing more layers is often necessary to stay warm. Don’t be afraid to add layers as needed to regulate body temperature, especially when engaging in water activities, as the water can cool the body quickly.
A combination of base, mid, and outer layers can provide the necessary insulation and protection against the elements.
How does outdoor apparel help regulate body heat?
Clothing for outdoor activities helps regulate body temperature in several ways.
One way is by providing insulation, which helps to trap heat close to the body and prevent the body from cooling too rapidly. This is especially important when engaging in water activities, as the water can cool the body quickly.
Another way clothing helps regulate body temperature is by providing a barrier against the elements, such as wind and rain.
For example, a waterproof and windproof jacket can help to keep the body dry and warm in wet and windy conditions. This is important when practicing water sports, as the combination of water and wind can cause the body to lose heat quickly.
Finally, clothing can also help to regulate body heat by wicking away sweat and moisture from the skin.
When the body sweats, the moisture can evaporate and help to cool the body. However, if the sweat remains on the skin, it can make the body feel cold and uncomfortable.
Moisture-wicking clothing helps to move sweat and moisture away from the skin, helping to keep the body dry and comfortable.
Overall, the ability of clothing to regulate body heat is of greater importance when practicing water activities because the water can cool the body quickly, making it more difficult to maintain a comfortable body temperature. Proper clothing can help to keep the body warm and dry, helping to ensure that the body can function optimally during water activities.
General Clothing Recommendations & Tips For Kayakers
When kayaking, choosing clothing that is comfortable, flexible, and provides good coverage is important.
Here are a few general recommendations and tips for kayakers:
- Wear quick-drying clothing: Look for clothing made from materials that are quick-drying, such as synthetic fibers or moisture-wicking fabrics. These materials will help keep you comfortable and dry while kayaking.
- Layer your clothing: Layering your clothing can help you regulate your body temperature and stay comfortable while kayaking. Consider using a base layer made of moisture-wicking material, a mid-layer for insulation, and an outer layer to protect you from the wind and rain.
- Wear shoes with a good grip: Choose shoes with a good grip that will help you stay stable while kayaking. Closed-toe shoes with a rubber sole are a good choice.
- Protect your head and face: Wear a hat or visor to protect your head and face from the sun, and consider wearing sunglasses with polarized lenses to reduce glare.
General Clothing Recommendations & Tips For Surfers
When surfing, choosing flexible, comfortable clothing that provides good coverage is important. Here are a few general recommendations and tips for surfers:
- Wear a wetsuit: A wetsuit will keep you warm in cold water and provide good coverage while surfing.
- Wear a rash guard or swim shirt: A rash guard or swim shirt will provide added sun protection and can also help reduce chafing and irritation.
- Wear shoes with good grip: Choose shoes with a good grip that will help you stay stable while surfing.
- Protect your head and face: Wear a hat or visor to protect your head and face from the sun, and consider wearing sunglasses with polarized lenses to reduce glare.
General Clothing Recommendations & Tips For Canyoneering
When canyoneering, it’s important to choose clothing that is durable, flexible, and provides good coverage. Here are a few general recommendations and tips for canyoneering:
- Wear quick-drying clothing: Look for clothing made from materials that are quick-drying, such as synthetic fibers or moisture-wicking fabrics. These materials will help keep you comfortable and dry while canyoneering.
- Layer your clothing: Layering your clothing can help you regulate your body temperature and stay comfortable while canyoneering. Consider using a base layer made of moisture-wicking material, a mid-layer for insulation, and an outer layer to protect you from the wind and rain.
- Wear shoes with good grip: Choose shoes with a good grip that will help you stay stable while canyoneering. Shoes with a sturdy sole and good ankle support are a good choice.
- Protect your head and face: Wear a hat or visor to protect your head and face from the sun, and consider wearing sunglasses with polarized lenses to reduce glare.
Conclusion and final thoughts on selecting the right outdoor clothing for water activities
When it comes to outdoor water clothing, the right choice will depend on the type of activity you participate in, the water temperature, the air temperature, and your personal preferences.
Be sure to consider the factors outlined in this article, and take the time to try on different items and find the right fit and sizing for you.
With the right outdoor water clothing, you’ll be able to enjoy your water activities with confidence and comfort.
